What a treat it was to meet Carly McDade, MS, RYT and learn about her holistic approach to women's health! Her therapy practice, EmBodyed Tides, opened this past fall on the 2nd Floor at 711 Bethlehem Pike. When she isn't seeing patients in the office you can find her teaching yoga at various local studios and teaming up with other like-minded practitioners to provide community events. My favorite quote from Carly - "You are your own mosaic and should be celebrated!"
In a nutshell, can you describe your practice?
A holistic health practice that provides wellness services (psychotherapy, yoga and reiki) for clients who struggle with stress or anxiety due to grief/loss, trauma, or low self-worth.
What made you decide to open this business?
Recognizing the need for a more holistic approach to wellness that incorporates the connection of Mind/Body in terms of healing. This is usable for individuals, couples, and families!
Why drew you to this profession?
Ever since I was young, I had a knack for listening to other people. We all share many universal feelings and experiences, including self-doubt, anxiety, and loss. The older I got, I realized there was an opportunity to build a career around supporting others in their healing process. I realized that I could hold space for people who wanted to engage in life with a purpose - but were unsure of how to do so, with negative circumstances continuing to hold them back.
What drives you to do what you do? What motivates you?
So much of my motivation comes out of my own healing processes. From my own experiences using therapy, yoga, and other methods of self-care, I am driven to offer a similar experience for my clients. You do not have to be alone on your journey to wellness.
What has surprised you most when owning a business?
How inspiring it can be to start something you’re passionate about!
What was it like when you first started?
Exciting, intimidating, rejuvenating, stressful, assuring. It’s still a mix of all these things!
Do you ever travel to client's homes?
YES! I do, for both private yoga or therapy sessions.
What would your customers say they love most about your business?
Clients have described my approach as “warm” and “kind.” (I use a hashtag on my Instagram account, #kindnesscomesback, so it aligns well!) I think clients find that my authenticity and disclosure of some of my personal experiences really highlights my human-side. I like being open with clients to cultivate a trusting relationship.
What are your goals over the next year?
To keep growing - physically and energetically! I plan on holding even more workshops this year, as well as free support groups for folks in the area. I especially look forward to supporting moms who have experienced fertility issues or loss in their families.
​
What are your greatest challenges?
Sometimes terminating with clients is a challenge for me! I say this with regards to clients who are doing so much good work during treatment, that it becomes clear they are ready to move onto their own, taking all that they have learned with them. Because we have developed a professional relationship, it’s amazing to see them soar, but can be difficult to say “goodbye!”
What brought your practice to Erdenheim?
The opportunity to share an office with colleagues and 2 other wellness programs. It has helped my business generate into a wonderful collaboration. I love our spot on Bethlehem Pike - being close to Flourtown and Chestnut Hill, there’s so much to see and do when not with clients! I love to walk around and even practice yoga right at Cisco Park.
What are your favorite restaurants in the neighborhood?
Halligan’s Pub, The Bagel House, and Ritas (when in season!)
Why do you think it's important for people to support local businesses?
Choosing wellness providers in your area is a great opportunity to engage in community empowerment. It offers you a chance to develop long-lasting relationships and skills that can support you, your children, your friends & family in the future.
Do you have any exciting plans for the future that you want customers to know about?
I look forward to hosting a FREE monthly workshop in the near future, called “Mindful Mamas,” held right at our office at 711 Bethlehem Pike!
Anything exciting going on that customers should know about?
I’m facilitating a 6-week yoga series, starting January 21st, that is designed for 8 women participants, who are looking to reclaim their inner power. More information is on my
website and
Facebook page!
and in March:
“Mindfulness & Meals” at the Flourtown GIANT
Wednesday March 7th, 6pm
Saturday March 10th, 11am
Co-hosting with Giant’s own Registered Dietitian, Rabiya Bower, we are offering two FREE classes to discuss incorporating Mindfulness practices into your nutrition habits.
Sounds like you have some great things in the community - how can we stay in the know ?
You can check out this page for my upcoming events, workshops, and presentations in the community!
And – for more details about my practice as well as tips regarding your mental health, you can receive my monthly newsletter. Just email me at
[email protected] and I will add you to the list.
